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PARAMPARA

C o l l e g e H e r i t a g e V o l u n t e e r P r o g r a m m e A n n u a l e - N e w s l e t t e r ( 2 0 1 6 - 1 7 ) , I s s u e - 4

www.youngintach.org www.intach.org

Heritage of my native

place

Page 14

Volunteer

Programme Journey

since 2012

Page 3 - 4

Message from INTACH

We are pleased to share the fourth issue of the College Heritage

Volunteer e-Newsletter, „Parampara‟. It highlights the heritage

activities undertaken by colleges and other contributions from

students. We appreciate the efforts of the history departments of

10 colleges of Delhi University.

Heritage is something that means something to us …. touches

us, tells us something and makes us remember something or has

to do with beauty, glorification and significance. It was wonderful to

read about students describing the heritage of their native place,

whether it was the Baldeoji temple of Panna city; Munger fort; or

the cuisines, chikan embroidery and zardosi work of Lucknow …

Parampara stands for heritage and supports a legacy of heritage

preservation. We hope you may carry forward this tradition, even

as, you pursue further academic programmes or step into the

professional world!

We conclude this message with the Heritage and Citizenship

Pledge - which we hope you may all embrace,

“As a responsible citizen of India …

I care for the wonders of nature that are mine to protect.

I am proud of the richness of culture and heritage that I promise to

respect. I pledge to conserve and preserve the heritage of our

country. I will save, protect and promote - the heritage of India”.

Heritage Activities in

Colleges

Page 5 - 13

Feature story –

Natural Heritage

Trees in Ancient India

Page15

Source: Pranjoli Das, Modern High School, Kolkata

Heritage Education and Communication Service

Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage

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Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) is a membership organisation of

volunteers, committed towards preserving and conserving, art and cultural heritage in India.

Established in 1984, INTACH protects unprotected monuments and sites, preserves and conserves

the environment and living heritage, and fosters an awareness and appreciation of our past.

INTACH’s mission to conserve heritage is premised on the belief that living in harmony with heritage

enhances the quality of life and is the duty of every Indian citizen.

INTACH has successfully undertaken numerous heritage restoration, preservation and awareness

initiatives. It has widened its membership-base to involve more individuals to address its core

heritage concerns.

Membership is important, as it gives weight to INTACH’s representation as a premier Indian institution

dedicated to preserve and conserve the country’s art and cultural heritage. The representation

must stretch across social strata and not remain only with the educated elite.”

[INTACH Chapter guidelines]

For more information, visit: www.intach.org, www.intach.org/join-become-a-member.php

INTACH

INTACH HERITAGE ACADEMY

INTACH Heritage Academy (IHA) set up in

2012, undertakes training, research and

capacity building in all aspects of heritage

conservation and management for

conservation specialists; academic

institutions; authorities, departments and

organisations (government and non-

government); crafts people; the general

public and communities.

Envisioned as a centre of excellence and

one of the first of its kinds in the country, IHA

aims at strengthening the implementation of

INTACH objectives.

Capacity building by developing skills

through training programmes.

Develop guidelines for conservation

training at various levels.

Special courses on conservation and

management of natural and cultural

heritage in different parts of the

country.

For more information, visit: http://heritage.intach.org/

HERITAGE EDUCATION AND COMMUNICATION

SERVICE

Education is at the heart of INTACH’s endeavours

to promote heritage.

The Heritage Education and Communication

Service (HECS) set up in 1998, works towards raising

heritage awareness among undergraduate

college students and faculty members. Training

them to become heritage volunteers to lead a

nation-wide movement for heritage protection

and promotion.

Training and capacity building workshops for

college heritage volunteers.

Interactive forums on heritage conservation

and management.

Cultural Heritage walks for students.

Design and support heritage activities for

colleges.

For more information, visit:

http://www.youngintach.org

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Featured Art icle T i t le : Subt i t le of Art ic le

V o l u nt eer P r o g r am m e Jo u r n ey s in ce 20 1 2 … .

INTACH‟s College Heritage Volunteer Training is a pioneering initiative undertaken with the support and endorsement of

the Ministry of Culture, Government of India since November 2012. The programme aims at sensitising youth to protect

their heritage and train them to lead a nation-wide movement for heritage conservation and preservation. Since its launch,

over 1,400 undergraduate student volunteers have been trained through 20 workshops and three forums organised by

INTACH in 12 cities (until March 2017). Our project cities (at the moment) are Chandigarh; Chennai; Gangtok; Guwahati;

Gwalior; Jammu; Kakinada; New Delhi; Pune; Shimla; Varanasi and Warangal.

We do believe all our project cities are valuable links who have been undertaking interesting heritage work. In the financial

year - 2016/17, two forums, six workshops and one college heritage session was organised. We reached out to: 8 cities;

647 students; 80 teachers and 50 colleges.

The e-newsletter is a celebration of our efforts and work undertaken by students, as well as, college faculty members. We

truly appreciate your volunteering spirit and commitment to protect heritage. Without you, it would not be possible to

embark on this journey. Hope to highlight our collective endeavours from across the country in the coming issues.

INTACH invites more volunteers to become a part of the college heritage volunteer programme and unleash –

a national movement to protect, promote and safeguard our heritage…….

Co l l eg e H er it ag e V o l un teer T r ain in g W o r k sho p in D el hi

The College Heritage Volunteer Training Workshop for undergraduate history students of Delhi University was held on 19

January 2017 at INTACH New Delhi. It was attended by 60 students and eight faculty members from ten colleges of Delhi

University, including, Delhi College of Arts and Commerce (DCAC); Gargi College; Hindu College; Indraprastha College

for Women (IP); Jesus and Mary College (JMC); Kamala Nehru College (KNC); Kalindi College; Lady Shri Ram College

for Women (LSR); Mata Sundari College and St. Stephens College.

The workshop introduced and discussed various aspects of heritage including – What is Heritage and its components by

Ms Purnima Datt (Principal Director, Heritage Education and Communication Service INTACH); Understanding Material

Heritage and a visit to the conservation lab by Dr Padma Rohilla (Art and Material Heritage, Centre Coordinator INTACH

Delhi); discussions on „Delhi and Heritage based-development in the city‟ by Prof. A G K Menon (then, Convenor INTACH

Delhi; Conservation Consultant; Urban Planner and now, Advisor, INTACH Delhi Chapter) and „Delhi - then and now‟ by

Dr Narayani Gupta (Historian). In addition to, a heritage walk to Lodhi Garden with Dr Swapna Liddle (then, Co-convenor

Delhi Chapter INTACH and now, Convenor, Delhi Chapter INTACH). The sessions and interactions helped raise general

awareness on various heritage issues gripping the nation.

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DID YOU KNOW?

18 April is celebrated by

ICOMOS as the

“International Day for

Monuments and Sites”,

whose establishment was

approved by the 22nd

UNESCO General

Conference in 1983.

Every year, this day is

celebrated by countries -

all over the world, as

„World Heritage Day‟.

World Heritage Day encourages communities

to recognise cultural

heritage, raise awareness about it, draw attention

to its vulnerability and support efforts to

safeguard it.

The theme for 2017 is „Cultural Heritage and

Sustainable Tourism‟.

VOICES FROM THE PROGRAMME:

Learnt vernacular methods of restoration and acquired insights on heritage development.

- P Kanimozhi, St. Peter’s School of Architecture, Chennai.

Will try enlightening my fellowmates about INTACH – its works, our culture and need to conserve it.

- K Keerthana Devi, MIDAS Chennai.

As an HECS intern, my main task was to research topics, prepare write-ups and develop heritage

worksheets. When I began work, a plethora of information became available to me and admittedly, I

had limited knowledge of many aspects! To me, the experience - could be likened to a voyage of

discovery, with every new topic at the start of each day, began a promise to learn and explore in a

way that I had not done before!

- Antara Ragini Dev Sarmah, Ramjas College, Delhi University.

The HECS workshop encouraged students to take action towards heritage protection, preservation

and raise public awareness. Following the HECS internship, I hope to inform fellow students about

heritage and its importance; participate in heritage walks and get involved in heritage clubs.

- Geetika Gunjan, Kamala Nehru College, Delhi University.

History surrounds us - architecturally, culturally and ideologically. However, we are often oblivious to

it. Studying in a college that in itself is a historic site, I would use the skills acquired to spread

awareness of its historic value. I intend to get involved with the college archives section, organise

interactive quizzes and heritage walks for students.

- Sanjoli Mathur, Indraprastha College for Women, Delhi University.

V o l u n t e e r P r o g r a m m e J o u r n e y … .

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Delhi College of Arts and Commerce (DCAC)

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

The History Department of Delhi College of Arts and Commerce

(DCAC) endeavours to sensitise students and help them

understand, as well as, appreciate the rich diversity of Indian

culture. During the Annual History Department festival, „Dharohar‟,

students worked on a theme and curated an exhibition which

involved research and served as a pedagogical tool. Including, the

World Heritage Sites in India, among other interesting activities.

The theme for 2016-17 was understanding culture and its various

dimensions.The students attended a workshop organised by

INTACH, a heritage walk across Humayuns Tomb (in collaboration

with INTACH), as well as, nature walks which were a regular feature

of the institution‟s heritage awareness programme.

HAVELIS OF SHAHJAHANABAD

DID YOU KNOW?

Kucha Pati Ram, is a narrow lane with a number of havelis or mansions. These havelis feature as heritage

buildings in the 800 structures listed by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD).

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Haveli Ram Kutiya, the first haveli in Kucha Pati Ram was built in 1915 by Lala Kanhiya Lal.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Haveli Kucha Pati Ram, named after the lane itself, was built in the early twentieth century.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Haveli Nawab Mirza Dawud Khan, was a minister in the court of Mughal Emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar.

Back then, his haveli was considered to be one of the most beautiful havelis of the Mughal era.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Kala Mahal, built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan was used as his residence temporarily (before the

completion of the Red Fort). After Partition, the palace was bought by moneylender and trader Chunna Mal.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Chunna Mal ki Haveli

Lala Rai Chunna Mal was a wealthy moneylender and textile trader of Old Delhi in the 1800s. He owned a large

portion of Chandni Chowk and lived there too. His Haveli built in 1848, continues to be a landmark in Chandni

Chowk. It is a beautiful mansion with intricate artwork, exquisite chandeliers hanging from the high ceilings. It

is inhabited by descendents of Lala Chunnamal and remains well-preserved till date.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli

Mirza Ghalib ki Haveli in the walled city of Delhi is located at Gali Qasim Jaan in Ballimaran, Chandni Chowk,

Delhi. As the name suggests, Mirza Ghalib lived here and felt inspired to pen down some spectacular

masterpieces in poetry, couplets and literary works.

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Gargi College

Situated in the historic environs of the third city of Delhi - Siri - Gargi College stands barely, 100 metres away

from the imposing ruins of Siri Fort wall.

Commemorating the Golden Jubilee of Gargi College, the History Department set up a Heritage Club to

promote heritage awareness activities. Three heritage walks were organised – two with the assistance of

INTACH and the third guided by faculty member, Dr Ruchika Sharma.

Dr Swapna Liddle (Convenor, Delhi Chapter INTACH) conducted the first walk to Siri. The monuments

covered were the tomb and mosque of Makhdum Sahib in Mayfair Gardens, with its 12-pillared tomb and

extensive blue paintings inside; Muhammad Wali masjid near the Siri Fort Sports complex; Tohfee wala

Gumbad in Shahpur Jat, and the Siri Fort Wall. Ms Aradhna Sinha (INTACH) conducted an excursion to Old

Delhi or Purani Dilli. The Old Delhi walk covered a range of monuments, such as, the Jain Mandir, the Shiv

Mandir, the Baptist Church, the Sisganj Gurudwara, the havelis and so on.

The annual inter-college History Festival, „ANTARAAL‟ covered lesser-known aspects of Delhi‟s history and

was titled „Dilli-scapes: Delhi‟s Multilayered Pasts‟. The speakers were Prof. Sunil Kumar (Department of

History, University of Delhi) who spoke on „Reconstructing Sufi Habitats: Modern Nizamuddin, Medieval

Indraprastha, Kilukhari and the Jamuna‟ and Dr Swapna Liddle (Convenor, Delhi Chapter INTACH) whose

talk was on „The Revolt of 1857 as reflected in the Shahr-e-Ashob Poetry‟. The second day of the festival

featured a delightful mushaira and Tasveerein Kuchh Kehti Hain: Going beyond the Text, in which, short films

on Delhi were screened.

Icing on the co-curricular heritage cake was a weekend trip to Agra and Fatehpur Sikri (25 - 26 February

2017). It included, a visit to the Taj Mahal complex; Tomb of Itmad-ud-Daulah (built like a jewellery box by the

Empress Noorjehan for her father); Agra Fort complex; the royal city of Fatehpur Sikri - Buland Darwaza;

Birbal‟s Palace; Jodha‟s Palace, Ibadat Khana, the Dargah of Salim Chishti and finally, Sikandara - where the

greatest emperors – Akbar – rested in peace in the simplest tombs and building reflecting the merging of the

Rajput Haveli and Mughal Mausoleum styles, as well as, the use of marble and red sandstone in an

aesthetically balanced way.

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

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Hindu College

In the academic year 2015-16, the history society organised several seminars and heritage walks, in order to,

aid an understanding of history beyond a classroom environment. The highlights were a walk conducted by

Mr Sohail Hashmi (an academician, historian and expert in his field) across the Humayun‟s Tomb. Almost 80

students went for the walk and were inspired by the manner, in which, the walk was conducted and kept them

engaged for almost four hours! The concept of Mughal gardens, water-systems, theories on the interpretation

of the six-pointed star symbol were enlightening, as well as, stimulating.

During the academic session 2016-17, the tradition of organising heritage walks continued with the same

momentum. Ms Deepika Gupta along with Assistant Prof. R.B. Azad Choudhary led a heritage walk for the

students in the Mehrauli Archaeological Park. As the area of Mehrauli has become synonymous with the

Qutub Minar complex, the students were mesmerised to see one of the most well-preserved tomb interiors in

the Jamali Kamali tomb, a Lodi period baoli/step-well and the British modifications to Mughal period

structures.

Overall, the events undertaken by the zestful history society were instrumental in helping students inculcate

heritage-sensitive values which would not be possible within a classroom-setting. It also increased their

sense of belonging and created an awareness for heritage preservation.

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

DID YOU KNOW?

In its first avatar, it was Mehraulli.

In its second, they named it Siri.

Before Jahanpanah came Tuglaquabad.

After which it was reborn as Firozobad.

Humayun called it Dinpanah.

And Shahjahan named it after himself.

Today we call it ‘New Delhi’.

Think ahead - what would the next city of Delhi be like?

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Indraprastha College for Women (IP)

History department:

Organised lectures (2016-17): Dr Anshu Malhotra (Associate Professor, Department of History,

University of Delhi) delivered a lecture „Telling tall tales: Storying the self and other stories‟; Ms

Guneeta Bhalla, Founder of „The 1947 Partition Archive‟ delivered a talk on „70 years later:

Understanding Partition‟; Ms Tanuja Kothiyal (Professor at the School of Liberal Studies, Ambedkar

University) delivered a talk „A Murder in Shah Jahan's Court: Loyalty and Rebellion in Mid-

Seventeenth Century‟; among others.

Performances: A public reading of Bhagat Singh's work „Why I am an Atheist?‟ by Mr Sanjay Mattoo

(Department of Multi Media and Mass Communication), to commemorate the 86th martyrdom of

Bhagat Singh (23 March 2017).

Lucknow in Letters: Endeavours, Achievements and Tragedies was a performance involving readings

from letters in english, hindi and urdu by Mr Sanjay Muttoo and Mr Saman Habib. The letters

described the incredible culture in the city of Lucknow, displaying an evolving ethos of

cosmopolitanism.

Field Excursions: Meenakshi Khanna, “The Ārāmgāh of Jannat Āshyānī” in a field lecture on Mughal

architecture at the Humayun‟s tomb with special reference to the Mughal waterfront gardens was

conducted for students of Semester VI (3 March 2016); B.A. Honours Semester I students visited the

National Museum to view the Pre-historic and Harappan Galleries (30 September 2016); B.A Honours

Semester III students visited Safdarjung Tomb (8 November 2016) as part of their Heritage

conservation paper and students were asked to write a report on the monument afterwards.

Nazariyat - a student journal of the history society: Student paper presentations have been a strong

feature of the department and became an annual activity since 2010.

Association with National Archives of India: In March 2015 the Principal, along with the ASC,

approved a proposal for a two-day workshop at the National Archives of India for introducing skills for

doing research and creating employability for students pursuing History. Two workshops were

organised for students during Semester VI and V (March and October 2015).

Department of Environmental Science:

Tree Census: the Department of Environmental Studies of IP College initiated a Tree census and

labeling project in 2015. According to the Tree census, there were 518 trees and 62 tree species.

Bird watching expedition was observed in the college campus under which 19 bird species were

identified. A field-trip to Keoladeo National park was organised to observe migratory birds in and

around Delhi.

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

Photograph source: Indraprastha College for Women website (http://ipcollege.ac.in/)

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Jesus and Mary College (JMC)

Dastaan, the Art and Architecture Society of Jesus and Mary College was action packed with numerous

activities.

Heritage walks

The campaign - #Knowthe-unknown, wherein, walks were

conducted across known and unknown monuments in the vicinity

of Delhi, with a mission to lift the obscurity surrounding these

monuments. The cultural and heritage walk conceptualised this

year was across the Nizamuddin Basti, where the first heritage walk

was taken. The other heritage walk sites were Feroz Shah Kotla;

Purana Quila and Chandni Chowk (a walk for the University of

Chicago students).

Talks

Dastaan conducted talks about the unknown aspects of the city and the mughal paintings. Including,

distinguished Prof. Emeritus Irfan Habib on „The Saga of Indian Architecture‟; Prof. Mahalakshmi

Ramakrishnan on „Representation of goddesses in early Medieval India‟.

Other interesting activities

Dastaan was posting articles on the blog designed and written by college students. In addition to, articles on

talks and walks which were documented through different social-media‟s as well. Utsav‟17, Dastaan‟s annual

festival was scheduled on 17 March 2017. It had an exciting line-up of activities, including a poetry slam

„KHAYAL‟ and a painting competition „TAWIR‟ (hosted in collaboration with INTACH).

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

DID YOU KNOW?

In 1931, the Imperial capital of New Delhi was established as a seat of power of the British Empire. Its chief architect, Edwin Lutyens took inspiration from various indigenous elements in its architecture. For instance, the use

of local raw materials, like, red and buff sandstone; the Sanchi Stupa dome, inspired the design for a similar dome in the Rashtrapati Bhavan. A decorative element, Chattri was adopted from the architectural style in Rajasthan and

adapted into fountain bowls….

To protect the building from the blazing heat of sun and rains, Lutyens incorporated the Mughal element, Chajja

which is a stone slab. In addition to, using stone screens inspired from Mughal Jali work ….

The next time you visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan, do look out for these - interesting architectural features ....

- A Capital Story: The Building Of New Delhi, 1911-1931 (INTACH)

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Kamala Nehru College (KNC)

Dr Archana Ojha took generic elective students (ie.- non-history students from political science, geography,

sociology, hindi, sanskrit, psychology, journalism, english, and mathematics discipline) to Qutab complex and

Mehrauli Archaeological Park (23 October 2016). Students were explained the three phases of Qutab

Complex development and how to understand the process of destruction as well as, reconstruction of

medieval monuments within the parameters of that era. They were later taken to Mehrauli Archaeological

Park to show them the continued usage of the same site from 11th - 19th centuries. Students found it

interesting to analyse technological progress in monument building process (13th - 16th centuries), particularly,

in the context of religious institutions, water reservoir systems and mausoleums.

Later, students were taken for a walk across Moth Masjid at Uday Park, Chor Minar, Hauz-i Khas and

Shahpur Jat. The walk was part of a long-project that colleges had undertaken (since 2005) to document and

maintain archival photos of the Siri fort monuments.

The students were taken for a walk to Old Delhi (November 2017). The walk began with a visit to Qila-i-

Mubarak where students were explained how the new palace city represented imperial strength and the

image of Mughal ruler Shahjahan, the need to develop a new city and shift of the capital city from Agra.

Students were taken to Kinari bazaar and thereafter, a Jain locality known as Naugrah in Chandni Chowk.

The walk to Old Delhi was organised for third year history students (April 2017) and they were taken to the

Qila, Salimgarh, Fatehpuri Masjid, Khari Baoli to get a taste of Old Delhi food and to the Jama Masjid where

the walk ended.

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

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Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

Kalindi College When we explored the unexplored!

Delhi is a city-known for its seven historic-cities. The land was invaded by great

rulers and conquered by numerous dynasties, since 1000 AD, in the history which

has left behind a legacy, heritage and physical manifestation of their political

prowess in the form of architecture which adorn the historic Delhi skyline. Thus, with

curiosity at heart and the intend to re-live history, the students explored some

areas….

Visit to Sultan Ghari‟s tomb: Rangpuri Pahadiya is an area secluded from Lutyens

Delhi, but gives no less information about our past. Here, a temple was desecrated

and in 1231 AD Iltutmish built the Sultan Ghari tomb in memory, of his son,

Nasiruddin Mahmud. It is built over a raised plinth of certain height in rubble

masonry work. The octagonal shape of the tomb is also unique as it has been built

within the fortess like outer structure with four corner towers, over a Ghari (cave) in

front of the western Qibla wall of the mosque. It thus, is a combination of an over

ground tomb with towers and an underground chamber for the crypt. The western

qibla which has the mihrab, is made of marble in exquisite Turishbad Afghan design.

Visit to Bahlul Lodhi‟s tomb: Located in the historic settlement of Chirag Delhi, within

the fort walls of the Jahanpanah City. It is one of the finest examples of evolution of

Lodi architecture. The tomb is dedicated to Bahlul Lodi, founder of the Lodi dynasty

built by his son Sikandar Lodi. The root is crowned by 5 domes, the central one

being fluted. The central columns springs from 4 monolithic stone columns. Each of

its four facades are broken by three archways supported in red sandstone columns

and their spandrels are ornamented with medallion.

Visit to Nasiruddin dargah: The dargah of Chirag-i-Delhi is the mausoleum or burial

tomb of a renowned Sufi Saint named Hazrat Nasiruddin Mahmud Chirag Dehlavi,

the disciple of Khwaja Nizamuddin Auliya. Through centuries, urbanisation saw the

growth of settlements around this dargah and the village settlement around the

shrine was named after Sufi Saint Hazrat Nasiruddin Mahmud as “Chirag-i-Delhi”

that lies today very close to Greater Kailash in South Delhi.

DID YOU KNOW?

TUHFEWALA GUMBAD

Situated in the walls of the Siri and today

surrounded by the

Shahpurjat village, the Tuhfewala Gumbad, is

perhaps among the few surviving structures from

the Khalji era.

It is suggested that the

building name literally meant, „Gifted Dome‟

and functioned as a mosque.

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Lady Shri Ram College for Women

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

Talk by Dr John Wilson (16 August 2016) on „The Chaos of Empire: Rethinking

the Rise and Fall of the British Raj‟. Dr Wilson discussed the imperial presence

that England wanted to showcase in India using powerful images and

paintings.

Visit to National Museum (27 August 2016): Around 40 enthusiastic history

buffs explored various exquisite galleries.

Talk by Prof. Ian Barrow (2 September 2016): The theme for discussion was

'A Short History of the East India Company'. The discussion began, with Prof.

Barrow, highlighting various aspects of East India Company, and thereafter,

established how the Company emerged as a global international market.

Walk to Mehrauli Archaeological Park (1 October 2016): The books, films and

heritage club of the Department of History organised its first heritage walk to

Mehrauli Archaeological park, with one of the most renowned historians, who

conducted amazing heritage walks across Delhi, Mr Sohail Hashmi.

Walk to Khooni Darwaza and Firoz Shah Kotla (1 October 2016): The walk

was interesting and followed by a small poetry session centred around the

theme 'Blood'.

Guest lecture by Prof. Upinder Singh (6 October 2016): „Where was the

kingdom of Funan located?‟, Prof. Singh talked about understanding Indian

history in the context of the world, rather than restricting it within its political

boundaries. She wove the lecture around the various forms of interactions that

connected Southeast Asia and India, especially, focusing on the route of

religion.

Screening of „Concerning the Bodyguard‟ (7 October 2016): The Departments

of History and Political Science facilitated the screening of „Concerning the

Bodyguard‟‟ based on a short story by Donald Barthelme (published in the

New Yorker in 1978) and read by Salman Rushdie.

Talk by Prof. Narayani Gupta (27 October 2016): „What exactly is Heritage?‟,

an insightful speech on 'heritage' and 'historicity'. Using multifarious examples,

she pointed out that the definition of heritage was heavily influenced by the

trends of the time .

Prof. Ian Barrow delivering a lecture

Mehrauli walk with Sohail Hashmi

Prof. Upinder Singh during a talk

Students and faculty during a visit to Raza Library in Rampur

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Mata Sundari College for Women (2015-17) Photographs of Delhi - INSERT

Mata Sundri College for Women, from a historical perspective is `wrapped in time‟. The college itself is located near the historic gurudwara which is associated with the wife of the tenth Sikh Guru, Mata Sundri, who lived here in the 18th century. Around our college, there are extremely important historical monuments, which virtually span the entire history of India from ancient to modern times. Eminent scholars of national repute were invited to address the students. Dr KK Mohammad gave talks on Archaeological restorations in the Chambal valley (6 February 2015); `Discovery of Ibadat Khana and Christian Chapel in Fatehpur Sikri‟ (23 February 2016); `Archaeology: Early Buddhist sites in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh‟ (1 September 2016). GAATHA collaborated with the Department of Urdu and Education for celebrating the `Life and times of Amir Khusrau.‟ Lecture on Amir Khusrau by Prof. Sharif ul Hasan Qasmi which was followed by a Qawali programme by Nizami brothers from the Dargah of Sufi Saint Nizamuddin Auliya (26 March 2015). The first and second year students were taken on a field trip to Tuglaqabad and Hauz Khas (27th February 2016). While the third year students were taken to Fatehpur Sikri, Agra (8 March 2016). A two-day history symposium was organised on the `Partition of India 1947‟ was organised (16 - 17 March 2016). Prof. Salil Mishra spoke on `Understanding Partition‟. A movie, `Khamosh Pani‟, was screened, which dealt with the theme of partition with much sensitivity. Screening of a documentary on the French Revolution was appreciated (21 August 2016). A national seminar on `18th Century Punjab‟ was organised by the department (6 - 7 October 2016). Professors from various universities were invited who enlightened the students on different aspects of the Punjab in the 18th century. The keynote was presented by Prof. Indu Banga (Professor emeritus from the Punjab University, Chandigarh). The department released its first bi-annual Newsletter titled `Chronicle‟ (21 January 2017). The classical movie `Pyasa‟ was screened to make students aware of socio-gender situation in post-independence India (27 January 2017). A mandatory visit to the National Museum was organised for the first year students (4 February 2017). The students who had attended the INTACH Delhi workshop, made a presentation for their batchmates in college about their understanding of heritage and whatever they had learnt. It was followed by a lecture by Dr Firdos Anwar on `Historiography of Medieval India‟ (14 February 2017). A `Food Walk to Purani Dilli‟ was oraganised for the students (22 February 2017). Last but not the least, an educational fieldtrip to Humayun‟s tomb was organised (March 2017).

Symposium of partition by Dr Salil Mishra

Visit to Meharauli Archealogical Park

Visit to Humayun‟s tomb

Dr K K Mohhammed with students

Heritage Activities undertaken by Colleges in Delhi University

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HERITAGE OF MY NATIVE PLACE ….

Panna city (often, neglected in the shadow of its neighbouring city i.e.- Khajuraho). It has historic temples with unique architecture. The temple that stands out the most is the Baldeo ji Mandir. The temple was built under the patronage of Maharaj Shri Rudrapratap Singh by an Italian architect Mr Manly in 1933. The temple is in Palladian style as a scaled down replica of St. Paul's Cathedral in London. Apart from this temple, the city has numerous structures dating back to Bundela‟s reign. Such as Prannath Temple (belonging to Pranami

sect), Kishorji temple, Ajaygarh fort, Mahendra Bhavanand and many more.

It boasts of rich natural heritage with animals like the tigers, alligators and

waterfalls (Pandav falls and caves, Renah falls).

- Siddharth Tiwari and Vaibhav Srivastava, DCAC College

The Munger Fort was built during the early rule of slave dynasty in India. The

Fort houses a number of religious and historic monuments, such as, the Tomb

of Pir Shah Nufa, the Kashtaharini Ghat on the Ganges river, Chandisthana - a

shakti peeth and a british cemetery.

It also has a garden, Shri Krishna Vatika named after the first chief minister of

Bihar, Dr Shri Krishna Singh. The garden has remnants of an old palace.

Surrounded by the Ganges on three sides and Kharagpur hills on the other side,

Munger is a nature lover‟s paradise.

- Shuchi Gupta, Gargi College, University of Delhi

Baldeoji Temple

On the occasion of World Environment Day (5 June) ….

THINK ABOUT

Natural heritage – as a part of national identity? Think about the natural heritage in your neighbhourhood, city, state and country….

What can be done to preserve this natural heritage .…

Lucknow or the city of etiquettes was historically known as Awadh. The city has

been a centre of culture for centuries. It is famous for its royal and authentic

cuisines. Including, a range of kebabs, biryanis and chaat, but also nostalgic

ittars, soul touching music and shayari.

Not to forget that - people especially visit the city for its special chikan

embroidery suits and Lucknavi zardozi fabrics. Moreover, the people in this

city believe in the “Pehle Aap culture” which literally means “After You”.

- Trisha Sinha, Gargi College, University of Delhi

15

Trees in Ancient Indian history - culture, mythology and iconograhy

Excerpts from an article presented by Anchit Jain (Delhi College of Arts and Commerce)

Feature Story – Natural Heritage

Image 4

Image 1 - mother goddess

Image 2 - Bhimbetka paintings (source: Sacred plants of India – Nandita Krishnan and N Amritalingam)

Image 5 Image 6

Image 7

Harappan Seals: Two unicorn heads emerging

out of Pipal leaves (image 4); seal with a Khejri

or Shami tree – revered in Rajasthan and

Gujarat, which was associated with the great

Chipko movement (image 5); three pipal leaves

on the headdress of the famous Pashupati seal

(image 6).

Tree workship in Neolithic Age: Mother

goddess cult (see image 1), linked with fertility.

Trees in Ramayana: Tropical deciduous (Panchvati); dry and moist

decidicious (Kishkinda); tropical evergreen (Sri Lanka).

Trees in Mahabharata: Lord Krishna was associated with trees like

Kadamba.

Trees in Buddhism: Each Buddha had its own Bodhi tree (ie.- tree of

enlightenment). Gautam Buddha had Pipal tree under which he meditated.

Trees in Jainism: Each tirthankar was associated with a different tree

under which he attained kevalgnana. Like Mahavira (last tirthankar)

received it under kevalgnana under a sala tree.

Kalpavriksha: Wish fulfilling tree of life was important in various faith

traditions – Jainism; Buddhism and Hinduism. Different regions have

different kalpavriksha trees. So in parts of country, where Mahua tree grew

(like in Jharkhand), it was identified as kalpavriksha.

Trees in Vedas: A mandala in the Rigveda was

dedicated to the Soma plant. Early temples were

built under trees and spirit tree workship was

practiced.

DID YOU KNOW?

Sometimes, trees are married

among themselves and the gender of trees are subject-to-

change.

So in the marriage of neem and

peepal – pipal is male, but it becomes female in the marriage

with Bargad!

16

CREDITS INTACH HECS EDITORIAL TEAM, DESIGN AND LAYOUT:

Purnima Datt

Shivaa Rawat

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS: INTACH HECS team

Smriti Rajvanshi; Shanta Khanna; Bashobi Banerjee; Abhishek Das; Teresa Walter and Christina Shangne

TEXT AND PICTURE CONTRIBUTION:

Delhi College of Arts and Commerce, History Department (Delhi University, DU)

Anchit Jain; Siddharth Tiwari; Vaibhav Srivastava (students) and Neeru Ailawadi (faculty member)

Gargi College, History Department, DU

Trisha Sinha; Shuchi Gupta (students) and Deeksha Bhardwaj (faculty member)

Hindu College, History Department, DU

R.B. Azad Choudhary (faculty member)

Indraprastha College for Women, History Department, DU

Meenakshi Khanna (faculty member)

Jesus and Mary College, History Department, DU

Dolan Samanta (student)

Kamala Nehru College, History Department, DU

Archana Ojha (faculty member)

Kalindi College, History Department, DU

Pankhuri Saxena; Keerti Saini; Somya Joshi; Shraddha Tiwari; Akanksha Bhatt and Nidhi (students)

Lady Shriram College for Women, History Department, DU

Pankaj Jha (faculty member)

Mata Sundri College for Women, History Department, DU

Daljit Kaur and Simmi Kapoor Mehta (faculty members)

P Kanimozhi (St. Peter’s School of Architecture, Chennai) and K Keerthana Devi (MIDAS Chennai)

Interns: Antara Ragini Dev Sarmah (Ramjas College, History Department, DU); Geetika Gunjan (Kamala Nehru College, History Department, DU);

Sanjoli Mathur (Indraprastha College for Women, History Department, DU) and Vandita Bajaj (Sprindales School, Pusa Road)

REFERENCES:

Books: A Capital Story – Building of New Delhi (1911-1931) INTACH; Chandni Chowk, Swapna Liddle; Delhi - The Emperor’s City, Vijay Goel

Websites: http://www.icomos.org/en/what-we-do/focus/18-april-international-day-for-monuments-and-sites; http://metro.co.uk/2017/04/17/world-

heritage-day-2017-what-it-is-and-why-is-it-important-6577821/; https://sites.google.com/a/ip.du.ac.in/history_department/history-society-activities

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